PUTRAJAYA, Aug 28 — The excitement surrounding the 2026 National Day celebrations is building as crowds flock to the iconic Dataran Putrajaya to witness first-hand the preparations and parade rehearsals ahead of the historic celebration on Aug 31.

As early as 6.30 am, visitors began filling the seats provided and the surrounding areas to witness the lively pre-rehearsal parade, including the impressive display by security forces and the Rebana Ubi musical performance that added to the National Day’s lively atmosphere.

Participants and visitors met by Bernama described the nearly two-hour parade rehearsal as an important platform for instilling patriotism and fostering love for the country, particularly among the younger generation.

For Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) personnel Mohd Helmi Masuhudi, 38, who took part in the Jalur Gemilang flag-raising ceremony, the task was a great honour for him and his team.

“Representing the RMN at this grand occasion is a source of great pride. Every time we take part in the National Day celebrations, it reminds us of the harmony, peace and unity among Malaysia’s various races that we enjoy today,” he said after completing the rehearsal.

For Nur Alya Natasya Muhamad Solehin, 24, her presence was not merely to add to the National Day celebrations, but also to show moral support for her father, who was directly involved in the parade.

“This is my first time coming to watch the rehearsal. Although I brought along my four-month-old baby, I am still excited because my father is taking part in the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) contingent this year,” she said.

Also sharing her excitement at witnessing the lively parade and procession was retired Siti Haidah Idris, 68, from Rembau, Negeri Sembilan, who said watching the rehearsal live offered a different experience compared with watching it on television.

“This is the first time in my life that I have watched a rehearsal in person. Although I arrived a little late, I am very happy to be able to bring my grandchild to see the displays of unity as well as the parade of military and police assets,” she said.

Customs officer Nurshazarina Abd Karim, 43, took the opportunity to spend her leave with her husband and four children to experience the festive atmosphere first-hand, while also wanting to instil in her children a spirit of patriotism through the display of assets and aerial performances.

Meanwhile, goods supplier Hafizur Rahman Azzaharuddin, 27, who travelled from Kota Damansara with his wife and young child, expressed his admiration for the performances, describing them as spirited, energetic and full of colour.

“I really wanted to see the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) and Malaysian Army (TDM) contingents. It was definitely worth coming, even if it was just to watch the rehearsal,” he said.

For participant R. Tarishini, 26, who represented a dance troupe, taking part in the parade for the first time was an unforgettable experience, as she had the opportunity to showcase the beauty of the country’s cultural arts before thousands of spectators while fostering a spirit of unity and patriotism.

The rehearsal held today saw various parade contingents, cultural performances and security asset displays undergoing final preparations to ensure the smooth running of the National Day celebrations on Aug 31.

Themed ‘Malaysia MADANI: Kesejahteraan Dinikmati’, the 69th National Day celebration will be held at Dataran Putrajaya, with more than 80,000 visitors expected to attend. — Bernama